Toyota has launched its most affordable electric vehicle in China, the bZ3X SUV, with a starting price of just RMB 109,800 ($15,150).
This move marks Toyota’s entry into the coveted RMB 100,000 EV segment, and the initial reaction? Absolutely explosive.
Within the first hour of availability, the bZ3X racked up over 10,000 orders! The surge in traffic even crashed GAC Toyota’s website, according to CN EV Post.
The bZ3X, born from Toyota’s joint venture with GAC Group, is a 5-door, 5-seater SUV designed to challenge the perception of Toyota as a maker of “dumb” cars. It boasts a sleek, minimalist interior, reminiscent of Tesla, anchored by a massive 14.6-inch touchscreen.
Key Features:
- Affordable Price Point: Starting at RMB 109,800 (with temporary incentives dropping it to RMB 104,800 or $14,450), it’s Toyota’s most accessible EV in China.
- Multiple Variants: Seven options are available, catering to different needs and budgets.
- Advanced Tech: Select models feature LiDAR and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) from Chinese startup Momenta, including the highly touted Momenta 5.0 with NOA (Navigate on Autopilot) capabilities.
- Performance: A single electric motor powering the front wheels delivers 150 kW or 165 kW, with a top speed of 160 km/h.
- Range Options: Lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries offer ranges of 430 km, 520 km, and 610 km (CLTC).
- Localization: Toyota emphasizes local sourcing, with 65% of parts from Chinese suppliers.
- Shared Platform: The bZ3X shares its platform with the GAC Aion V, but with distinct battery technology.
- Chip power: While the main infotainment runs on the older qualcomm 8155 chip, the lidar equipped models use the Nvidia Orin X chip.
Toyota’s integration of LiDAR and advanced ADAS, notably Momenta’s technology, signals a clear intention to compete with China’s tech-forward EV brands. The NOA feature, operating without HD maps, is a significant selling point.
The bZ3X is currently a China-exclusive model, highlighting Toyota’s focus on this crucial market. This launch follows the bZ4X SUV and bZ3 sedan, with the latter showing surprisingly strong sales figures.
